Wisconsin Dells:

With more than 400 million visitors a year, it’s no wonder the Wisconsin Dells has been dubbed “The Waterpark Capital of the World.” It’s a place for fun and family, with attractions inside and out so you never have to worry about weather the sun is shining. The Dells is a great alternative for those who have had their fill of the theme parks of Florida and are looking for something different.

Three of the best

Kalahari is the most adventurous place I’ve been to in the Wisconsin Dells. It would be tough to run out of things to do here, even if the weather was bad. Tom Foolerys Adventure Park is 100,000 square feet and includes a Ferris Wheel, thrilling G-Force One ride, Laser Tag, a Go Cart Track, a Rope Track, a small Roller Coaster, and more. There’s also a bowling alley and large waterparks inside and outside at Kalahari.

Chula Vista has a little of something for just about everyone. This large resort has a selection of suites that are more like apartments, for larger and extended families. Adults can enjoy golf and spa, and the whole family can play at miniature golf, 4D cinema, the waterpark (inside or out), or take a walk-through nature on the Scenic Riverwalk.

Great Wolf Lodge would be my choice if you have smaller kids. You’ll still find the waterpark, arcade, and bar, pool and whirlpool for grownups and older children, but they offer unique options for the younger set. You’ll find character appearances, arts & crafts, family game time, ShadowQuest, and story time at Great Wolf to keep them occupied and happy.

If the weather is good

For the biggest outdoor amusement park in the Wisconsin Dells, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park. Guests receive access to the indoor and outdoor attractions. Visitors can purchase day passes even if they aren’t staying there.

Another place to visit in the Wisconsin Dells in the spring and summer is Timbavati Wildlife Park. They have over 400 animals you can see through the train ride and walkthrough. You can also do Sloth and Rd Panda encounters, bit those must be arranged in advance and cost extra.

Can’t miss for a meal

You’ll find plenty of places to eat in and out of the resorts, but one is as much an attraction as it is a meal. No trip to the Dells is complete without going to Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty. I’ve done both the dinner and breakfast.

The best way to describe Paul Bunyan’s is as a buffet brought to your table. The all-you-can-eat meals are served family style and includes a big selection of homestyle food, such as eggs, pancakes, sausage, and biscuits & gravy. You’ll want to stop in their store after tasting the donuts. Breakfast is year-round, but they close for lunch and dinner in winter months.

Escape the kids

If you have a chance to leave the kids with a friend or relative, or want to take a trip without the children, you’ll find there are also grownup activities in the Wisconsin Dells.

Sundara Inn & Spa offers one of the best experiences I’ve seen for a relaxing spa day. You will find many options for treatments, but that is just the start. Treatments come with the use of the expansive indoor pool and whirlpool areas, which include a swim-up bar for cocktails, mocktails, smoothies, and food from the restaurant. They also include a Purifying Bath Ritual and steam room.

The Wisconsin Dells is also becoming a wine region. You won’t be disappointed at Balanced Rock, which also has a driving range to try out before or after your tasting. Wollersheim has both a winery and a distillery, and a bistro where you can put together a picnic to have on their scenic grounds.

Getting there

The Wisconsin Dells is easy to get to from major airports. The closest is Dane County in Madison at 55 miles away, but you can find more flight choices from General Mitchell in Milwaukee (116 miles) and O’Hare in Chicago, Illinois (188 miles).

Look out for specials and packages throughout the year at Wisconsin Dells resorts Many include meals and extra activities.